Cushi is a biblical figure mentioned in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Jeremiah. He is identified as the father of Shelemiah, who played a role during the tumultuous period of the prophet Jeremiah's ministry. The name "Cushi" is often associated with the region of Cush, which is traditionally linked to areas south of Egypt, possibly modern-day Sudan or Ethiopia. However, in this context, Cushi is a personal name rather than an ethnic or geographical designation.

Biblical Reference:

Cushi is mentioned in Jeremiah 36:14, where his son Shelemiah is involved in the events surrounding the reading of Jeremiah's scroll. The verse states: "Then all the officials sent Jehudi son of Nethaniah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Cushi, to Baruch, saying, 'Bring the scroll that you have read in the hearing of the people and come here.' So Baruch son of Neriah took the scroll and went to them." (Jeremiah 36:14)

Context and Significance:

The mention of Cushi occurs during a critical moment in the ministry of Jeremiah. The prophet had dictated a scroll to his scribe, Baruch, containing the words of the Lord against Israel and Judah. This scroll was read publicly, causing a stir among the people and the officials. The officials, including Shelemiah, were alarmed by the contents and sought to bring the matter to the attention of King Jehoiakim.

Cushi's son, Shelemiah, is part of the delegation that approaches Baruch to bring the scroll to the officials. This indicates that Cushi's family held a position of some influence or responsibility within the administrative structure of Judah at the time. The involvement of Shelemiah in this event highlights the tension between the prophetic message of Jeremiah and the political authorities of Judah.

Theological Implications:

The brief mention of Cushi and his son Shelemiah in the narrative underscores the broader theme of divine communication and human response. Jeremiah's prophetic message, delivered through Baruch, represents God's call to repentance and warning of impending judgment. The officials' reaction, including the role of Shelemiah, reflects the varied human responses to God's word—ranging from curiosity and concern to outright rejection, as later demonstrated by King Jehoiakim's actions.

Cushi's inclusion in the genealogy of Shelemiah serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of individuals within the biblical narrative and the unfolding of God's purposes through history. While Cushi himself is not a central figure, his mention contributes to the rich tapestry of relationships and events that characterize the prophetic literature of the Old Testament.Jeremiah 36:14
Therefore all the princes sent Jehudi the son of Nethaniah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Cushi, to Baruch, saying, Take in your hand the roll wherein you have read in the ears of the people, and come. So Baruch the son of Neriah took the roll in his hand, and came to them.
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